Description
This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian salami, fresh vegetables, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed with colorful tri-color rotini pasta and zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for any occasionβfrom picnics and barbecues to family dinnersβthis salad is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd favorite that will impress your guests. Its refreshing taste and delightful textures make it an ideal side or main dish. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully after chilling in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 2/3 lb Italian salami (chopped)
- 1/2 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 red onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup grape tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- 6 oz black olives (sliced)
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with salami, green and red bell peppers, red onion, grape tomatoes, mozzarella, black olives, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour in the Italian dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like basil or swapping out salami for grilled chicken. This salad can easily accommodate other ingredients such as artichokes or roasted peppers.